David's Story
I was first diagnosed in 1956 at the age of 19 with paranoid schizophrenia. I was studying to be an Art Teacher at the time. I spent time in All Saints hospital but was allowed to continue my studies, and finished them at the age of 25.
My psychotic episodes meant I couldn’t stay living at home. I spent a total of 25 years living in All Saints hospital as a patient. Eventually I was allowed to be a day patient. I lived in various hostels, bed and breakfasts, even becoming homeless and on the streets. I lived in the crypt at St Martins for a while, with no where else to go.
My life was sometimes chaotic, but I did manage to work; my favourite job was working at the Royal Mint in Birmingham, I also worked in a car wash.
To this day I still feel disappointed that I couldn’t go home to be a good son to my parents, and to be the son they wanted. But they never abandoned me and visited me regularly whether I was in the hospital or hostel.
In 1989 I was given a place at the Gables care home. This was the first place I could really call a home in many years. I lived there for 15 years, but eventually it was time for me to move on again. I moved into supported housing in 2005. I wanted somewhere of my own, my own piece of England. A door I could shut and somewhere I could call home.
I have battled with mental health and physical health. I have a hip replacement, breathing problems and have recently been diagnosed with diabetes. But it doesn’t stop me getting on with my life. In 2007 I moved finally for the last time (hopefully). I was given a Bungalow with warden control and with the help of supported housing staff I am doing fine. Today I cook, bake cakes, and tend my garden, just like any normal pensioner in the complex. I have finally gained the life I always wanted. I think my parents would have been very proud of me.
I have battled with life for 71 years, more than 50 of them with a mental illness. I continue to do my art work; it can be seen all around my home, and the homes of many others who have met me. I don’t like having injections, I have been having them for 50 years. But I am at peace with myself today, more at ease with a life that has not always been easy.